Audit. Operations in an academic setting

A-U-D-I-T...the very word instills fear in the hearts of many. We recently received a letter from the director of the University of Rochester's Internal Audit Department, notifying us that they had scheduled a routine operational audit of our department. What is an "operational audit"? What is meant by "routine"? Who are these internal auditors and what do they want from us? This article illustrates two actual experiences: an operational audit and the process used to develop and implement standards and practices consistent with an auditor's recommendations. Additionally, it provides information on what an auditor looks for during an audit, and lastly, provides tips on how to prepare for a "painless" audit.